DULVERTON beekeeper Gail Johnson has been presented with the Somerset Beekeepers' Association's highest honour.

She is pictured (left) receiving the West Country Honey Farms Award from one of the SBKA's judges and president of Taunton division Jenny Gammon.

Master beekeeper Gail received the award at the asssociation's annual meeting in Ilminster on Saturday for her outstanding contribution to beekeeping.

Jenny, who is also a previous recipient, said Gail was an active supporter of SBKA and had held the post of treasurer as well as being a mentor and organiser.

"As well as furthering the progress of beekeeping in Somerset, she has made a very significant contribution to beekeeping throughout the UK," added Jenny.

"She now assesses exams for the British Beekeepers' Association at all levels and also sets some of the modular exams."

There are nearly 800 members of SBKA which works to advance the craft of apiculture and to promote general awareness and understanding of honeybees.